2013 New Presidents Academy: Speakers

President Emerita, Longwood University (Va.)

Patricia Cormier served as president of Longwood University from 1996 to 2010. She has been a lead member of the academy faculty for the past decade and in 2011 became the academy’s coordinator. She has been both a chief academic officer and a chief advancement officer and has expertise in board development, presidential and vice presidential reviews, advancement and marketing.

Kenneth Dobbins, President, Southeast Missouri State University

Kenneth Dobbins was appointed president of Southeast Missouri State University in 1999, following eight years of service as vice president for finance and administration and later as executive vice president. He also held a variety of financial management positions at Kent State University (Ohio). He joined the academy faculty in 2005 and served as the chair of the AASCU board of directors in 2011. Dobbins has expertise in financial and facilities planning, developing public/private partnerships, and leveraging enrollment to enhance revenue.

Jolene Koester served as president of CSU Northridge from 2000 to 2011. She was previously the provost and vice president for academic affairs at California State University, Sacramento. Koester has expertise in presidential and organizational communication, strategic planning, system relationships and team development.

Keith T. Miller, President, Virginia State University

Keith Miller has served as president of Virginia State University since 2010 and was formerly president of Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania. He also served as the chief academic officer at University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh and dean of the College of Business at Niagara University. Miller has expertise in media and legislative relations, community development and strategic visioning.